S20 Ultra vs S20 Plus: Which Samsung Reigns Supreme?
Choosing a new smartphone can be overwhelming, especially when you’re looking at top-tier options. The Samsung Galaxy S20 series offered some incredible choices, but which one truly stood out? We’re diving deep into a head-to-head comparison to help you decide which phone is the perfect fit for your needs.
Today, we’re putting the behemoth Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra against its slightly more compact sibling, the Samsung Galaxy S20 Plus. Both phones boast impressive specs, stunning displays, and powerful performance. But what are the key differences, and which one offers the best value for your money?
This comparison will explore every aspect, from the camera capabilities and battery life to the overall design and user experience. We’ll break down the pros and cons of each device, so you can make an informed decision and choose the smartphone that best aligns with your priorities. Get ready to discover which Samsung phone emerges victorious in our ultimate S20 Ultra vs S20 Plus showdown.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | S20 Ultra | S20 Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 6.9 inches | 6.7 inches |
| Resolution | 1440 x 3200 pixels | 1440 x 3200 pixels |
| Processor | Snapdragon 865 / Exynos 990 | Snapdragon 865 / Exynos 990 |
| RAM | 12GB / 16GB | 8GB / 12GB |
| Internal Storage | 128GB / 256GB / 512GB | 128GB / 256GB / 512GB |
| Main Camera | 108MP + 48MP + 12MP + DepthVision | 12MP + 12MP + 64MP |
| Front Camera | 40MP | 10MP |
| Video Recording | 8K@24fps | 8K@24fps |
| Battery | 5000 mAh | 4500 mAh |
| Charging | 45W Fast Charging | 25W Fast Charging |
| 5G Connectivity | Yes | Yes |
| Weight | 222g | 187g |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Display
- S20 Ultra: 6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz refresh rate. Offers a larger and more immersive viewing experience. However, the size might be unwieldy for some users.
- S20 Plus: 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz refresh rate. Provides a vibrant display with a smooth experience. A more manageable size compared to the Ultra.
- Winner: Ultra
Camera System
- S20 Ultra: 108MP wide, 48MP telephoto, 12MP ultrawide, and a DepthVision sensor. Boasts incredible zoom capabilities and detailed image capture. The large sensor can sometimes lead to processing delays.
- S20 Plus: 12MP wide, 64MP telephoto, 12MP ultrawide, and a DepthVision sensor. Delivers excellent image quality with a versatile camera system. Zoom capabilities are good, but not as extensive as the Ultra.
- Winner: Ultra
Zoom Capability
- S20 Ultra: Up to 100x Space Zoom. Offers unmatched zoom performance, allowing you to capture distant subjects with impressive clarity. Results at extreme zoom levels can sometimes be soft.
- S20 Plus: Up to 30x Space Zoom. Provides a respectable zoom range, suitable for various photography scenarios. Zoom capabilities are significantly less than the Ultra.
- Winner: Ultra
Battery Life
- S20 Ultra: 5000mAh battery. Offers excellent battery life, easily lasting a full day of heavy use.
- S20 Plus: 4500mAh battery. Provides good battery life, suitable for most users. May require charging before the end of a very demanding day.
- Winner: Ultra
Processor
- S20 Ultra: Snapdragon 865 or Exynos 990 (depending on region). Powerful processor for smooth performance in all tasks.
- S20 Plus: Snapdragon 865 or Exynos 990 (depending on region). Offers excellent performance for gaming and multitasking.
- Winner: Tie
Design and Build
- S20 Ultra: Larger and heavier design. Premium build with a glass back and metal frame. The size can be a drawback for some users.
- S20 Plus: Sleeker and more compact design. Premium build with a glass back and metal frame. Easier to handle than the Ultra.
- Winner: Plus
Storage Options
- S20 Ultra: Available in 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB storage options with microSD card support. Offers ample storage for photos, videos, and apps.
- S20 Plus: Available in 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB storage options with microSD card support. Provides plenty of storage for most users.
- Winner: Tie
Price
- S20 Ultra: More expensive. Premium features come at a higher cost.
- S20 Plus: More affordable. Offers a great value for its features.
- Winner: Plus
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Display Size | S20 Ultra |
| Camera Zoom | S20 Ultra |
| Battery Life | S20 Ultra |
| Portability | S20 Plus |
| Value | S20 Plus |
What They Have in Common
- Display Quality: Both phones feature stunning Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays with a 120Hz refresh rate, providing vibrant colors and smooth scrolling.
- Processor: Both the Galaxy S20 Ultra and S20 Plus are powered by either a Snapdragon 865 or Exynos 990 processor, ensuring top-tier performance for demanding tasks and gaming.
- 5g Connectivity: Both phones support 5G, allowing for blazing-fast download and upload speeds where 5G networks are available.
- Video Recording: Both devices can record videos in stunning 8K resolution at 24fps.
- Water Resistance: Both models boast an IP68 rating, offering protection against dust and water submersion.
- Wireless Charging: Both phones support wireless charging, providing convenient charging options.
S20 Ultra Vs S20 Plus Buying Guide
Camera Comparison
The Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra boasts a significantly more advanced camera system than the S20 Plus. The Ultra features a 108MP main sensor, a 48MP telephoto lens with impressive zoom capabilities, and a 12MP ultrawide lens. The S20 Plus, while still excellent, offers a 12MP main sensor, a 64MP telephoto lens, and a 12MP ultrawide lens. The Ultra’s periscope zoom allows for far superior optical zoom, resulting in clearer shots from a distance. Consider your photography needs; if zoom and high-resolution images are crucial, the Ultra is the clear winner. The S20 Plus is still a capable shooter, but the Ultra offers a substantial upgrade.
Display Analysis
Both phones share impressive displays, but the S20 Ultra has a slightly larger 6.9-inch screen compared to the S20 Plus’s 6.7-inch display. Both feature Dynamic AMOLED 2X technology with a 120Hz refresh rate for incredibly smooth scrolling and animations. The Ultra’s screen also has a higher peak brightness. While the difference is subtle, the Ultra’s larger screen is beneficial for media consumption and gaming. The high refresh rate makes everything feel fluid on both models. Ultimately, both phones have fantastic displays, but the Ultra’s size and brightness edge it ahead.
Performance Evaluation
Both the S20 Ultra and S20 Plus are powered by the same processor, either the Snapdragon 865 or the Exynos 990, depending on the region. This results in very similar performance in everyday tasks and gaming. The Ultra often comes with more RAM (up to 16GB) compared to the S20 Plus (up to 8GB or 12GB), which can contribute to slightly better multitasking performance. Benchmarks show very little difference in actual use, so both phones offer a flagship-level experience. Both are incredibly fast and capable of handling demanding applications.
Battery Life Examination
The S20 Ultra has a larger 5,000mAh battery, considerably larger than the S20 Plus’s 4,500mAh battery. This translates to notably longer battery life for the Ultra, especially with heavy usage. The Ultra can easily last a full day, and sometimes even longer, while the S20 Plus will typically require a charge by the end of the day. The 120Hz refresh rate does impact battery life on both phones, but the Ultra’s larger battery helps to mitigate this. For users who prioritize battery life, the Ultra is the better choice.
Design and Build Quality
Both phones share a similar design language, with a glass front and back and an aluminum frame. However, the S20 Ultra is larger and heavier due to its larger screen and battery. Both phones are IP68 rated for water and dust resistance. The Ultra’s camera bump is also more prominent. The S20 Plus is more compact and easier to handle with one hand. Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal preference. Both phones are stylish and well-built, but the Ultra’s size is a key differentiator.
Price and Value Assessment
The S20 Ultra launched at a higher price than the S20 Plus. This is due to the Ultra’s superior camera system, larger battery, and larger display. However, the price difference has narrowed over time as both phones have become more affordable. Evaluate your budget and feature priorities. If you need the best camera and don’t mind the premium price, the Ultra is the better value. If you want a flagship experience at a slightly lower price point, the S20 Plus offers excellent value. Consider the used market for better deals.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy s20 ultra If…
- You want the best possible camera system with incredible zoom capabilities.
- You need the largest display for media consumption and productivity.
- You require the longest battery life possible.
- You prioritize having the most cutting-edge features and specs.
Buy s20 plus If…
- You want a premium phone with excellent performance but prefer a slightly more manageable size.
- You want a great camera system without the extreme zoom capabilities of the Ultra.
- You’re looking for a phone that offers a balance of features and value.
- You prefer a lighter and more pocketable device.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference in camera quality?
The S20 Ultra has a 108MP main sensor and a periscope zoom lens, offering superior zoom capabilities and higher resolution images compared to the S20 Plus, which features a 12MP main sensor and a standard telephoto lens. The Ultra provides significantly better zoom performance, sharper details, and more versatile shooting options, especially in low-light conditions. The Ultra’s camera is a substantial upgrade, making it the better choice for photography enthusiasts.
Which phone has better battery life?
The S20 Ultra has a larger 5,000mAh battery compared to the S20 Plus’s 4,500mAh battery. This results in noticeably longer battery life for the Ultra, especially with heavy usage. The Ultra can easily last a full day, and sometimes even longer, while the S20 Plus will typically require a charge by the end of the day. Consider your usage habits when choosing.
How does the display size compare?
The S20 Ultra has a larger 6.9-inch display compared to the S20 Plus’s 6.7-inch display. Both feature Dynamic AMOLED 2X technology with a 120Hz refresh rate. The Ultra’s larger screen is beneficial for media consumption and gaming, providing a more immersive experience. The difference is subtle, but the Ultra has the edge for screen size.
Are the processors the same?
Yes, both phones are powered by the same processor, either the Snapdragon 865 or the Exynos 990, depending on the region. This results in very similar performance in everyday tasks and gaming. The Ultra often comes with more RAM, which can contribute to slightly better multitasking performance, but the difference is minimal in real-world usage.
Which phone is more compact?
The S20 Plus is more compact and easier to handle with one hand due to its smaller size and lighter weight. The S20 Ultra is larger and heavier due to its larger screen and battery. The choice depends on your preference for size and portability. If you prefer a more pocketable phone, the S20 Plus is the better option.
What are the storage options?
Both phones offer various storage options. The S20 Ultra offers options up to 512GB of internal storage, while the S20 Plus goes up to 512GB. Both phones also support microSD card expansion, allowing you to increase the storage capacity further. The available storage depends on the model and region, so check the specifications when purchasing.
Which phone is better for gaming?
Both phones offer excellent gaming performance due to their powerful processors and high refresh rate displays. The S20 Ultra’s larger screen provides a more immersive gaming experience, while the slightly larger battery may provide longer gaming sessions. The choice depends on personal preferences; both phones handle demanding games flawlessly. The Ultra’s larger screen makes it a slightly better choice for an enhanced gaming experience.
Final Verdict
The Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra and S20 Plus both offer flagship features. The S20 Ultra stands out with its superior camera system, larger display, and longer battery life. While the S20 Plus remains a strong contender, the Ultra provides a more premium experience, especially in photography. The Ultra is the better choice for those prioritizing top-tier features and performance.
Winner: S20 Ultra